The BV magazine, July ‘22 EQUESTRIAN
Is this the ultimate pony? Is the Connemara simply the best pony? Local breeder Kate Walters explains their appeal and introduces a couple of Connemara superstars
The Connemara is a breed of native pony originating from the wild and rugged region of the same name in County Galway, Ireland. Prized for their hardiness, agility, extraordinary jumping ability and not least for their temperament, Connemaras are understandably popular with children and adults alike. The British Connemara Pony Society’s breed description is ‘a well-balanced riding type with good depth and substance and good heart room, standing on short legs, covering a lot of ground.’ The height specification for a Connemara pony is 12.2hh to 14.2hh but the overheight Connemara is probably everyone’s ideal first horse! They have a gentle disposition, are deeply inquisitive and love human affection, making 56
them very easy to handle. The Connemara pony is a safe and sensible breed, which makes them a fantastic choice for all ages and stages of riding. Working roots Traditionally, Connemaras were bred to be the backbone of small farms, where they lived as part of the family. They worked from dawn to dusk doing whatever task was asked of them; ploughing, pulling carts of turf, rocks and seaweed, and of course, on Sundays they were the mode of transport carrying the family to Mass ... Not to mention hunting, racing and local shows. They have a natural jumping ability, with a rectangular frame which also makes them suitable for dressage. Their natural athleticism and
versatility allows them to excel in all disciplines and makes great all-rounder ponies. In fact, the Connemara pony can be seen competing in all rings – showjumping, eventing, dressage, driving, working hunter, showing, hunting, side saddle ... They make fantastic competition ponies and are completely safe riding ponies for children. Many of today’s Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) showjumping and eventing pony teams, representing most of the European countries, are made up of Connemaras and partbred Connemaras. Connemara ponies have long been crossed with Thoroughbreds to produce the ultimate competition horse, with a couple of noteable showstoppers:
